Kelly/Skolnick Studio

More than a mere studio, this is a special home that emphasizes quality over quantity. Owner-built for a young couple with a new baby, this 776 sq. ft. dwelling, with a 278 sq. ft. garage/shop, abounds with the warmth of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Sean Kelly, the owner-builder, studied under master stair-builder Kevin Delay of Rutledge Staircase & Handrail, and put his abilities to work on what became the heart of the house: a beautiful, wooden spiral staircase and handrail that celebrates Sean’s love for fine woodworking.

Existing was a one-story studio with a carport that was tucked in alongside the alley behind the main house. The new two-story addition was built onto the east side of the existing studio, and the carport to the south was removed to make room for the new garage/shop, complete with clerestory windows. The existing studio was remodeled to house the front door with entry, a kitchen with pantry, living & dining areas, and a laundry along the transition to the garage/shop. The two-story addition consists of a bathroom, office nook, and stairwell on the first floor; a bedroom with viewing porch on second floor. And, despite the fact that Sean spends about half his time cavorting with the wild Chinook along our local rivers and estuaries, he finished this project in a very respectable and timely manner.